California flag

California has one of the most iconic and recognizable state flags in the country. Featuring a prominent bear with the words “California Republic,” it’s proudly displayed by residents of the Golden State. While you may have seen California’s state flag, however, there are probably some things you don’t know about it. Below are five fun facts about the California flag, some of which may surprise you.

#1) Adopted in 1911

Although it’s gone through several design changes, the first official state banner of California was adopted in 1911. During that year, the California State Legislature passed a law declaring the Bear Flag as its official state flag. Governor Hiram Johson signed the law into effect, thereby paving the way for California’s modern-day flag.

#2) The Bear Was Inspired By a Real Bear

The bear in the flag of California was inspired by a real bear. Known as Monarch, it was a grizzly bear held in captivity at a California zoo. Monarch moved around throughout his life. He was housed at the Woodward’s Gardens in San Francisco, after which he was moved to the Golden Gate Park. In 1911 – the same year when California adopted its first official state flag – Monarch passed away. His memory will forever live on in California’s state flag.

#3) One of Only Four State Flags That Doesn’t Feature Blue

The flag of California is one of just four state flags that doesn’t feature the color blue. The other states on this list include Alabama, New Mexico and Maryland. Nonetheless, California’s flag is still quite colorful. It features five colors: white, old glory red, maple sugar, seal and Irish green. The seal color is used to denote the bear, Monarch, whereas old glory red is used to denote the single star in the upper-left corner.

#4) The Star Symbolizes Freedom

According to a statement by the California Military Department, the star displayed in the upper-left corner of the California state flag symbolizes freedom. The first design actually didn’t have a star. Instead, the star was added to the California flag in 1836; however, it’s still used to symbolize freedom.

#5) Ranks as the 13th Most Popular State Flag

To say the flag of California is popular would be an understatement. Several years ago, the North American Vexillological Association conducted a survey to determine which state has the most popular flag. Researchers found that of 72 U.S. and Canadian state flags, the California flag ranked 13th.

• Who designed the California state flag and when was it adopted?
• What is the design on the California state flag and what does it represent?
• Why does the California state flag say “CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC”?
• Where can I purchase a California state Flag?
• How am I supposed to fly my California flag with my United States Flag?

Who designed the California state flag and when was it adopted?

The original state flag of California was designed by William Todd, nephew of Mary Todd Lincoln, wife of Abraham Lincoln. His original “Bear Flag” was very similar to the current state flag today. The flag was officially adopted as the state flag on February 3, 1911.

What is the design on the California state flag and what does it represent?

The state flag of California has a field of white with one red star in the upper left corner (canton) of the flag. Centered on the flag is a grizzly bear, facing left, walking on a patch of green grass. Centered below the grass are the words “CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC”. Running the full length across the of the bottom of the flag is a red stripe. The red star stands for freedom. The grizzly bear represents strength and persistence. The grassy plot symbolizes fertility, vibrance, and prosperity. The red stripe stands for courage and sacrifice and the white background represents purity and peace.

Why does the California state flag say “California Republic”?

American settlers in Mexican Alta (upper California) declared a new republic, and this rebellion was called the Bear Flag Revolt of 1846. This was very short lived as it became lost in the Mexican-American War which led to the American conquest of California, and much of what is now part of the western United States. So California was admitted to the Union as the 31st state. California never became an officially recognized independent republic but chose to adopt the flag anyway, so the term “CALIFORNIA REPUBLIC” continues to live on in this way.

Where can I purchase a California state flag?

For a 100% made in the USA California Flag, give Star Spangled Flags a try by clicking here! All of their flags are 100% made in the USA from materials that are 100% made in the USA! They are treated so that their flags dry fast and resist sun and chemical deterioration keeping the colors bright and beautiful against the sun’s ultraviolet rays. They use heavyweight nylon material that keeps them tough and long-lasting!

How am I supposed to fly my California flag with my United States flag?

When flying the California flag with the flag of the United States on the same pole, the flag of United States must always be at the top and the California flag should be the same size or smaller. When It is flown on separate poles, the California flag will be to the right of the flag of the United States situating the U.S. flag in the position of honor, which is to the observer’s left of the other flags.